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Tips for Driving in Wet Windy Conditions

EXPERTS say we will have to get accustomed to the sort of storms and rainfall we’ve had this year. We are bringing you the top 7 tips to for driving in wet and windy conditions.

EXPERTS say we will have to get accustomed to the sort of storms and rainfall we’ve had this year.That means, as road users, we need to be much more aware of how we drive and what we do if, and when, we encounter such conditions.So here are seven things to do – and not to do – when it gets windy and wet this winter.

1. Only travel if you have to if the wind is really strong. There is a high risk of being struck by falling branches, or trees, with potentially tragic outcomes. Do you really have to go? Can’t it wait?

2. If you simply must travel, try where at all possible, to take a route that isn’t fringed with tall or old trees. Plan your journey.

3. Drive slowly and steadily and watch out for other road users, especially pedestrians, cyclists and motorbikers as they are at high risk of gusts blowing them into your path.

4. Make sure you have a torch, warning triangle, a blanket, some snacks and soft drinks on board in case you get cut off. Even if you don’t need them, someone else may benefit from your forward planning if they find themselves in difficulty.

5. It is so obvious, but we often overlook checking if the spare tyre is fit and ready, that we have plenty of fuel and that everything is working in the car. Is your mobile fully charged? Have you a way of charging it in the car so if something goes wrong you can let people know where you are?

6. If you come across spot flooding be extremely careful. If you feel you have no alternative, stop the car and get out to physically check the depth of flooding – a stick or small branch will give you an indication. If there is anything of a current where a river has burst its banks do not under any circumstances proceed. You could be swept away. If the water is of a safe, consistently shallow depth, drive slowly and steadily through it. Do not try to speed across.

7. Leave loads of extra room between you and any vehicles ahead. It takes noticeably longer to brake safely on a wet, leaf-strewn road.Remember: if you must travel a little bit of preparation can make a big difference.

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21 Dec 2017

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